Sao Miguel is a treasure trove for hikers and adventurers. Its volcanic landscapes, lush valleys, and dramatic coastlines make it a natural playground for trekking. Whether you’re aiming for a vigorous climb, a peaceful forest walk, or a cultural walk through abandoned villages, this island offers a diverse range of experiences. We especially love tours like the Waterfalls Hike, Moinho do Felix with tea plantation for its stunning waterfalls and the chance to visit a rare European tea plantation, or the Sete Cidades Full-Day 4WD Tour with Hiking for its breathtaking crater views. You can find more about these adventures here and here. Sao Miguel’s terrain allows for both guided group treks and private tailored hikes, making it easy to find the right fit for your fitness level and interests.
Quick Overview
Our list features a broad selection of hiking tours that cover everything from half-day waterfalls and forest walks to full-day crater explorations and private custom hikes. Options include group adventures, like the Great Waterfalls Hiking Tour, which immerses you in the island’s lush northeast, or more personalized experiences like the Private Hike – Discover Sao Miguel’s Craters, Lakes & Waterfalls. Some tours highlight specific natural wonders such as Lagoa do Fogo or Fogo Lake, while others combine hiking with cultural visits, like the Waterfalls Hike, Moinho do Felix with tea plantation. The variety ensures there’s something for every taste and fitness level, from beginners to seasoned trekkers.
1. São Miguel Azores: Hike and Snorkeling into the wild with a local
At number 1, this tour combines a scenic hike with an underwater snorkeling adventure, providing a truly multi-sensory experience. Priced at $142.30 per person for about four hours, it’s a fantastic way to connect with nature both above and below the water. The tour is led by Gabriel, a guide praised for being adaptable and knowledgeable. During the hike, you’ll enjoy stunning views, waterfalls, hydrangeas, and rich history, with plenty of personal attention in a small group.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of trekking and snorkeling — perfect for travelers who want a diverse day out. The hike itself is manageable, especially for those with limited hiking experience, and the snorkeling offers a chance to see local fish and marine life. Reviewers highlight Gabriel’s friendliness and flexibility, making the tour accessible and enjoyable for everyone. Keep in mind, the snorkeling is cold water but worth the effort.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded experience suited for those who want a bit of everything — scenic walking, cultural insights, and marine exploration.
2. The Great Waterfalls Hiking Tour
For those who want to enjoy Sao Miguel’s lush northeast, the Great Waterfalls Hiking Tour is hard to beat. Priced at $126.76 and lasting about six hours, this group adventure takes you past three waterfalls, small villages, water mills, and rare bird sightings. The guide, Miguel, is noted for his knowledgeable commentary on Azorean culture and natural history, making the experience as educational as it is scenic.
The trail is described as challenging but doable, with comfortable hiking shoes and water shoes recommended for swimming in the falls. Reviewers mention the waterfalls’ stunning beauty and how Miguel’s storytelling enhanced the experience. The tour also offers a look into regional culture, making it ideal for those interested in both nature and history.
Bottom Line: Perfect for moderately active travelers who love waterfalls, wildlife, and learning about local traditions.
3. Waterfalls Hike, Moinho do Felix with tea plantation
This tour offers a half-day trek ($68.78) through scenic north coast landscapes, with the highlight being the Moinho do Felix Waterfalls, accessible via a 3.4-mile trail. It’s ideal for those seeking a manageable hike with rewarding views. The trail showcases lush vegetation and multiple waterfalls perfect for swimming, with the added bonus of visiting a rare European tea plantation—a unique feature among Azorean hikes.
Samuel, the guide, receives praise for his friendly, patient, and informative style, making the experience comfortable for all hikers. The visit to the tea plantation adds a cultural touch, offering insight into tea production on the island. The tour’s moderate difficulty and short duration make it perfect for families or less experienced hikers.
Bottom Line: Combines natural beauty and cultural interest, with enough activity for a relaxed half-day outing.
4. Sete Cidades Full-Day 4WD Tour from Ponta Delgada with Hiking
At number 4, this full-day adventure priced at $104.11 offers a comprehensive look at the volcanic landscape of Sao Miguel. The tour includes hotel pickup, visits to Pico do Carvão, Serra Devassa, and Pico da Cruz, and a hike in the Sete Cidades crater. The terrain is diverse, with spectacular views of the Blue Lake and Santiago Lake, and the guide ensures you see the island’s endemic plants and volcanic features.
The small group size (max 6) allows for a more personalized experience. Reviewers love the variety of scenery and the expertise of guides like Telmo, especially when foggy weather adds a layer of mystery to the crater views. The tour is suited for active travelers who want a full day’s worth of hiking, sightseeing, and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting an all-in-one day trip with both driving and hiking, and a good dose of volcano scenery.
5. Hiking Faial da Terra + Van Tour Nordeste
Number 5 offers a full-day combination of hiking and sightseeing for $92.55. Starting from Ponta Delgada, you’ll hike in Faial da Terra and visit Sanguinho, a nearly abandoned village with stories to tell. The tour also includes a picnic lunch at Salto do Prego waterfall, plus a scenic drive through Nordeste.
Guide Jorge is known for his friendly, professional approach, making this tour perfect for nature lovers who enjoy both active and relaxed moments. The hike is described as moderate and engaging, with lush forests and waterfalls. Reviewers highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the interesting cultural history.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a full-day outing with a mix of walking, cultural sights, and a relaxed lunch in nature.
6. Full Day Hiking Trail in Lagoa do Fogo Sao Miguel
This tour focuses solely on Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning volcanic crater lake, with about 8 hours of hiking for $75.24. The trail takes you through forests and watercourses to reach one of Portugal’s most beautiful lakes. This is a must-do for those who want to experience the island’s volcanic beauty firsthand.
The trail is described as both dynamic and adventurous, with a focus on native flora and fauna. It’s best suited for hikers comfortable with a full day of walking. The guide ensures you get the most out of the scenery with expert commentary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for dedicated hikers eager to explore Sao Miguel’s most breathtaking crater lake.
7. Private Hike – Discover São Miguel’s Craters, Lakes & Waterfalls
Number 7 is a tailor-made private tour, costing $324.41 for up to 6 people. The customized itinerary covers Sete Cidades, Lagoa do Fogo, and Nordeste, with options based on your interests and fitness level. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized experience with an expert guide.
The guide begins with a short consultation, then takes you on trails such as Serra Devassa, Lagoa do Fogo, and Sanguinho. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and tailored approach, which makes this tour suitable for families, small groups, or serious hikers. The emphasis on flora, fauna, and local stories enriches every step.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a customized, intimate exploration of Sao Miguel’s natural wonders.
8. 3 Hours Guided Forest Bathing Hike in Portugal
Number 8 offers a calming forest bathing experience for $64.78, lasting about 3 hours. Led by an expert, this tour focuses on activating your senses and promoting well-being amid Cryptomeria (Japanese Cedar) trees that emit therapeutic monoterpenes.
Ideal for those seeking a gentle, restorative walk rather than vigorous activity, this experience emphasizes mindfulness and relaxation. It’s perfect if you’re looking to combine outdoor activity with wellness. Recent reviews mention the soothing effects and beautiful environment.
Bottom Line: The best choice for travelers craving a slow, sensory connection to nature and stress relief.
9. Full Day – Hiking Trail Ribeira Funda-Maia
Number 9 takes you along the north coast’s rugged scenery for about 8 hours at $75.19. Starting from Ribeira Funda, you’ll pass old watermills, Viola beach, and scenic ocean vistas. The trail offers a mix of history and nature, with plenty of photo opportunities and local stories from the guide.
The trail is described as gorgeous and varied, perfect for those who enjoy ocean views, flowers, and cultural insights. Reviewers mention the stunning scenery and friendly guide, making this an excellent full-day option for active travelers seeking a diverse coastal walk.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a full day of coastal hiking with cultural context.
10. Fogo Lake Hiking Tour – Full Day
Rounding out the list, this full-day trek for $63.05 covers 6 hours and takes you to Lake Fogo, a volcanic caldera lake in a collapsed volcano. The route includes forests and native plants, with a relaxing lunch break and optional swim. Pickup and drop-off in Ponta Delgada make it easy to join.
This tour is well-suited for those wanting a manageable full-day hike, with guide-driven insights into the volcanic landscape. Reviewers mention the weather’s impact on the experience but note that guides like Paulo make the day fun and informative.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for those looking for a moderate hike with volcanic scenery and a relaxing lunch.
How to Choose Your Perfect Sao Miguel Hike
Picking the right tour depends on your fitness level, interests, and time constraints. For a short, scenic adventure, the Waterfalls Hike, Moinho do Felix offers a charming half-day experience. Want a more comprehensive day? The Sete Cidades Full-Day Tour combines crater views with a scenic drive. If relaxation is your priority, consider the Forest Bathing Hike, perfect for unwinding amid Cryptomeria.
Budget travelers might opt for the Fogo Lake hike or the Ribeira Funda-Maia trail, which both offer full-day experiences at around $75. Those seeking something tailored should consider the Private Hike, especially for groups or families.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season (spring and summer), to secure your preferred date. Consider combining a guided hike with cultural visits or a more challenging trail based on your interests and fitness. For detailed planning, check the tour’s website and compare options to find your ideal match.
To sum it up, Sao Miguel’s hiking scene is rich and varied. Whether you want a quick waterfall dip, a full-day crater exploration, or a peaceful forest walk, there’s an adventure suited for you. For those who love nature with a side of culture, tours like the Waterfalls Hike, Moinho do Felix and Sete Cidades Full-Day stand out. If you prefer a more personalized experience, the Private Hike will give you tailored insights.
Remember to book early, pack appropriate gear, and enjoy every step on this volcanic island’s trail. Sao Miguel promises unforgettable outdoor moments—so lace up your hiking boots and get ready to discover its rugged beauty.